Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Mumbai, has commissioned Taxiway M, marking a major upgrade in airside infrastructure at one of the world’s busiest single-runway airports. The new taxiway is designed to improve operational efficiency, reduce congestion, and strengthen resilience amid growing air traffic demand.
CSMIA handles over 950 aircraft movements daily, primarily supported by Runway 09/27. Until now, operations relied heavily on a single parallel taxi track, creating pressure during peak hours and maintenance periods. Taxiway M introduces a continuous parallel taxiway, reducing dependence on a single route and enabling smoother aircraft movement.
The project involved significant engineering challenges, including relocation of the Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) facility to ensure uninterrupted emergency response. A temporary fire station was commissioned while construction of the permanent facility progressed, maintaining CAT-10 safety standards throughout execution.
Delivered in multiple phases during the Fourth Control Period, the project required careful coordination in a highly constrained airside environment. Despite early monsoon conditions and uncharted utilities, swift design adaptations and stakeholder collaboration ensured timely completion.
Commissioned on 25 December 2025 in line with the AIRAC cycle, Taxiway M improves departure sequencing, reduces taxi time, and enhances on-time performance for airlines. It also provides alternate routing during disruptions, offering greater flexibility to air traffic control.
Beyond efficiency, Taxiway M supports sustainability goals by lowering fuel burn and carbon emissions through reduced ground delays. The upgrade positions CSMIA to manage current demand while creating capacity headroom for future growth.
